Christi Burnum

Christi Burnum serves as the director of advertising and brand strategy for Northrop Grumman, an American global aerospace and defense technology company. In her role, Burnum is key in contributing to the effectiveness of how the company communicates and engages with its customers.

With a digital marketing specialty, Burnum found synergy in working within a leading global security and technology company that is highly recognized for innovation. At Northrop Grumman, she is able to work on the cutting edge of what is new and possible in the digital industry.

Prior to this role, Burnum served as the vice president of digital media at a global public relations firm. On reflection, Burnum credits her career success to the skills she learned as a student at The University of Alabama.

“My advertising and public relations major taught me the core principles of communication, and my instructors encouraged curiosity and ingenuity, which has served me well in a fast-moving, constantly changing industry,” said Burnum.

Currently, Burnum is still heavily involved in UA’s College of Communication and Information Sciences, as a mentor through the Oakley Society and a visiting lecturer. Burnum is proud to see the more advanced opportunities students have today thanks to the A+PR department.

“As a graduate of the University of Alabama CC&IS, you are armed with the confidence, knowledge and critical thinking skills to take on any challenge,” said Burnum. “You also have a wide network of alumni, and a communications industry that knows the students from this institution are top talent and high performers.”

Looking toward the future, Burnum says she never wants to stop learning and growing as a professional. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in data analytics through the UA business school.